The Best Foods for a Healthy Breakfast

by Aviva Natural Health SolutionsNovember 18, 2010

Renee Mirabito

It's no secret that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. However, many of us don't make it a priority. Instead of a healthy and filling meal, we end up grabbing a quick coffee and a bagel. The best breakfasts should contain some whole grains, some protein, and some fresh fruit or vegetables. Here are some of the best foods to include in a balanced breakfast.

Oats

Oats are one of the best foods to start your day with. With their low glycemic index they will keep your blood sugar levels steady, and leave you feeling fuller for longer. This means you are less likely to go for your morning muffin. They also contain resistant starch, which is essential for good digestive health. Unlike many packaged cereals, oats are low in salt and sugar.

If the idea of oats leaves you a little uninspired, then there are plenty of ways of making them more appealing. Porridge with maple syrup on a winter's morning is delicious. You could also make your own muesli, complete with dried fruit and nuts. If you're feeling indulgent, add some raw oats to your favorite pancake recipe.

Berries

Starting your day with some fresh produce is a great idea. The natural sugar will give you a better buzz than your morning espresso. Many berries are high in antioxidants, and are packed with other essential vitamins and minerals.

Consider keeping a pint of berries in your fridge to sprinkle on your cereal. You can also mix them up with some yogurt, make a smoothie, or simply enjoy them on their own.

Yogurt

Yogurt is another great filling food to start your day with. It's high in protein, which will give you a great energy boost. It also contains calcium, and some natural yogurts contain good bacteria which your body needs.

Mixing up yogurt with fruit tastes great. Raw oats and yogurt is also a good way to start your day, especially with some natural honey on top.

Eggs

While they sometimes get a bad rap, eggs can play an important role in a balanced diet. For their calorie content, they are quite filling. Eggs have a high level of protein and also contain 18 essential nutrients.

It's often the foods we have with eggs that are unhealthy: bacon, sausage and hash browns, to name a few culprits. Instead, enjoy your eggs with healthy alternatives such as grilled mushrooms, spinach, and tomatoes.

Beans

Chickpeas, kidney beans, and cannelloni beans can all be a part of a balanced breakfast. They are packed with nutrients, and are quite filling as well.

If you're feeling like an indulgent breakfast, make your own baked beans by cooking up these beans with tomatoes, along with some eggs, Spanish onion, and whole grain toast for a healthy alternative to a fry up. It's just as satisfying and is good for you too.

Summary

A healthy and filling breakfast can leave you energized for the day ahead. These five breakfast foods are nutritious as well as delicious. Find some inspiration for your breakfast tomorrow!